"WA's commercial fishing and aquaculture industry generates more than $1 billion to the State's economy every year, directly employs more than 4,500 people and a further 5,000 indirectly," the Minister said.

"The breadth of experience, expertise and commitment to sustainable fishing and aquaculture practices from the 11 winners make it clear that the WA industry has a bright future ahead.

"Greg Jenkins, from the Challenger Institute of Technology, is a very worthy winner of the top honour - The Michael Kailis Leadership Award - for his education efforts and applied research skills across a range of projects, particularly in the field of aquaculture.

"Earlier this week, the State Government announced its Statement of Commitment to aquaculture, recognising it as a strategically important industry. The aquaculture research and development unit at Challenger, which Mr Jenkins manages, is at the leading edge of research and training in Australia."

Mr Baston said the winners of the other nine categories showcased the innovative pursuits of the people and businesses that made the State's fishing industry the best in the world.

"Whether it's a high-end restaurant, your local fish and chip shop, a small or large seafood business, all share the common goal of achieving excellence," he said.

"I also offer my congratulations to some of the other winners, including Ocean Grown Abalone, which is developing an abalone ranching project at Augusta, and the Australian Council of Prawn Fisheries, who put together the successful Love Australian Prawns campaign."